Two people were killed on Thursday in Imo State when a bomb explosion occurred inside a large drainage channel. The police spokesperson in Imo State, Henry Okoye, a deputy superintendent of police, stated on Friday that the incident happened at about 9:15 p.m. in Owerri West Local Government Area.
The victims were identified as Hyginus Akalonu, 32, of Umulumu, Ehime Mbano Local Government Area, Imo State, and Victor Egwu, 22, of Agba, Ishielu Local Government Area, Ebonyi State. Preliminary investigation indicates they were suspected scrap metal scavengers inside the drainage channel at the time of the explosion.
Victims succumbed to burn injuries
Both victims sustained severe burn injuries and were evacuated to the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where they were confirmed dead while receiving treatment. Police operatives visited the scene and cordoned it off upon receiving a tip-off.
The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit was deployed to secure and thoroughly sweep the scene. The area has since been declared safe, according to Mr Okoye.
Investigation underway
Mr Okoye said the police have begun an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion. Further updates will be communicated as the investigation progresses.
The Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Audu Bosso, assured residents that the police are on top of the situation. “The area has been secured, and there is no cause for panic,” Mr Bosso said. He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious objects or activities to the police.
Not the first bomb explosion in Imo State
This incident is not the first bomb explosion in Imo State. In September 2025, one person was killed in a bomb explosion in Obinwanne Community, Njaba Local Government Area. That explosion came about three months after a similar blast in Awo-Idemili, Orsu Local Government Area, which killed a middle-aged woman and injured several others.
In November 2024, at least two people were killed when a bomb exploded at the International Market in Umuna, Orlu Local Government Area. Although no group has claimed responsibility for these attacks, the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has been blamed for some deadly attacks in the Southeast. The separatist group has repeatedly denied any involvement.
